Putin has a clarity of perspective that, while obviously biased to reflect well on his own actions, enables him to describe the actions of all parties involved. Tucker encourages this throughout the interview. It is helpful if you are unfamiliar with the perspective of the Russian state. The more interesting parts of the interview occur later, around halfway, when Putin is describing recent developments in the global political situation. Throughout the interview he describes the actions taken by the US and Germany in a way that is calculated to undermine domestic support of those policies in those countries. He also repeatedly encourages Tucker to check his version of events with the US officials involved.

Putin comes across as, given a realpolitik perspective, a competent leader that can make his case simultaneously to both a foreign and domestic audience. The case is not new, though it likely will be to many that watch the interview.

The portrayal of Putin as a madman in the West will now likely backfire. The contrast is damning.

If you wanted Tucker to berate him, you’ll be disappointed. Otherwise, the interview was done well.

I hate that this has to be said, but it is possible to think all of this and not support Russia’s war in Ukraine or Putin in general. What you want and what is should be kept separate when attempting to understand reality.